Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents and visitors in Makwata, Botswana, where the sun shines brightly in a semi-arid climate. Tackling sunburn prevention and safeguarding your skin health becomes crucial as UV levels can peak significantly, especially from 10 AM to 2 PM. With the UV Index soaring to a maximum of 7 during the hottest hours, being aware of these levels helps everyone enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risks associated with overexposure to harmful UV radiation. Whether you’re working in the fields or basking in the sun, knowledge of UV exposure is key to staying protected in this sun-drenched region.
Today's UV Index shows a dynamic rise and fall in intensity throughout the day. Starting with a gentle 1 at 07:00, it gradually increases to a moderate 3 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 12:00, where the UV Index peaks at a striking 7, recommending caution for those outdoors. The intensity remains high at 7 till 13:00 before gracefully tapering off to 5 by 14:00. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index declines to 3 at 15:00 and further drops to 1 by 17:00, finally settling at 0 after 18:00. Enjoy the sun, but remember to stay protected during the peak hours! ☀️
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index fluctuates significantly throughout the year, peaking during the winter months with an extreme exposure category from January to April, when the burn time is as low as 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are January, February, March, April, September, October, November, and December, where the UV Index consistently exceeds 11. As the seasons change, UV levels drop in the summer months of June and July, reaching a high exposure category with burn times extending to 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures, especially in the high and extreme months, by wearing adequate sun protection, seeking shade, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Gaborone UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
Makwata | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
Molepolole UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
Selebi-Phikwe UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 15 |
Francistown UVI | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 15 |
Maun UVI | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |